Super Eagles gallantly fought back from a two-goal deficit to down Argentina 4-2 in an international friendly match in Krasnodar on Tuesday night.
Despite missing the effective Victor Moses, Moses Simon, Odion Ighalo and Ogenyi Onazi, the Super Eagles were relentless and fearless in their approach in the six-goal thriller.
Russian based wing back, Brian Idowu offered something special on his debut, albeit a substitute appearance and a superb goal, while young goalkeeper Francis Uzoho showed composure when he came on for Daniel Akpeyi.
The South Americans created the game’s first opportunity when the Nigerian defence fizzed in a cross to the near post, which Sergio Kun Aguero headed straight into the hands of goalkeeper Akpeyi.
The 1986 World champions went ahead in the 27th minute when Akpeyi failed to deal with Ever Banega’s free kick and Manchester City forward, Aguero doubled his side’s lead with his own strike nine minutes after.
However, Nigeria responded as Kelechi Iheanacho netted a sumptuous free kick as the first half ended 2-1.
Akpeyi was hauled off for debutant Uzoho at the beginning of the second stanza. Idowu and Tyronne Ebuehi came into the party for Shehu Abdullahi and Ola Aina respectively.
The Eagles came out flying in the opening periods of the second half. They pressurized the flat Argentina defense and scored in the space of six minutes.
Iwobi got on the end of Iheanacho’s intelligent ball to find the back of the net. Wilfred Ndidi won the ball on the edge of Argentina’s box, he freed up Iheanacho who located Iwobi for a great finish.
On 54 minutes, Idowu put Nigeria in the lead for the first time in the exciting fixture following a great team move.
With 16 minutes left on the clock, things turned to worst for the Argies as the rampaging Nigerians made it 4-2.
With no Messi to inspire any late heroics, Iwobi wrapped up the victory for Nigeria, the Arsenal forward finishing with his left foot after swerving his way beyond Javier Mascherano.
Argentina tried to fight back and went close to pulling a goal back but Uzoho produced two smart saves in the closing stages of the game.
The win was Nigeria’s second in eight senior outings against Argentina.
Packaged by Lanre Olabisi
